Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)

Cold Cranking Amps (CCA)

What It Means for Your Battery

Why CCA Matters

Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) is a key rating that tells you how well a battery can start your car in cold weather. The colder it gets, the harder it is for your engine to start—CCA ensures your battery has the power needed for reliable starts in chilly conditions.

What Is CCA?

  • Measures amps a 12-volt battery can deliver at 0°F for 30 seconds
  • Must maintain at least 7.2 volts during testing
  • Higher CCA = better cold-starting power
  • Especially important for cold climates, large engines, and diesel vehicles
CCA Triangle Diagram

When CCA Isn’t Enough

  • Reserve Capacity: How long your battery powers essentials if the alternator fails
  • Battery Age: Older batteries gradually lose CCA
  • Vehicle Type: Trucks, SUVs, and diesel engines need more CCA

Quick Takeaways

  • CCA = Cold starting power
  • Testing standard: 0°F, 30 seconds, must stay above 7.2 volts
  • Match CCA: to climate, vehicle type, and manufacturer’s specs

About Clarios

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And so does the battery
that powers each of them.

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Clarios creates the most advanced battery technologies for virtually every type of vehicle. We are a global leader in energy storage solutions, powering one in three of the world’s vehicles. We partner with our customers to develop smarter solutions that make people’s lives better.